Summer is humid and hot, and many foods are prone to spoilage and rot. Even rice is no exception. So how should we store rice during the summer?
Oxygen-free storage method
First, spread the rice to be stored in a cool and ventilated place to air dry (note that it should not be exposed to direct sunlight). Then, pack the rice in a well-sealed plastic bag, tighten the bag, and store it in a cool and dry place. This way, the rice can be stored for a longer period of time.
Garlic storage method
Choose several fresh and intact garlic bulbs, peel off the skin (note: do not crush the garlic to peel it), and then put them in a breathable cloth bag and seal it. Place the bag in the rice container.
Effect: Garlic contains sulfur compounds, which have unique antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and insecticidal effects. It is one of the best methods to prevent rice from insects.
Ash moisture-absorbing storage method
Spread a layer of ash (it is better to put the ash in a gauze bag) at the bottom of the rice container.
Then pour in the dried and blown rice, cover the rice container tightly, and place it in a cool, dry, and ventilated place. This way, the rice can be stored for a longer period of time.
Sichuan peppercorn storage method
Sichuan peppercorn is a natural antioxidant with a unique aroma and insect-repellent effect.
Method: Put 20-30 Sichuan peppercorns in a pot, add an appropriate amount of water, boil until the scent of Sichuan peppercorn is released, then soak the rice bag in the Sichuan peppercorn water, remove and air dry. Then pour the rice into the bag. Additionally, wrap several packets of Sichuan peppercorn powder in gauze and place them at the top, middle, and bottom of the rice bag, tighten the bag, and place the rice bag in a cool and ventilated place to prevent the rice from insects.
Kelp storage method
Dried kelp not only has strong moisture-absorbing ability, but also has insecticidal and antifungal effects. Mix the rice and kelp in a ratio of 100:1 (rice:kelp) in the storage container. After about 10 days, take out the kelp, air dry it thoroughly, and then put it back into the rice. Repeat this process several times to prevent the rice from becoming moldy or infested with insects.
Lime storage method
Lime is a natural "calcium oxide" that can absorb moisture and repel insects. It has a good effect on preventing rice from insects.
Method: Spread some quicklime at the bottom of the container, then cover it with plastic sheeting, and finally put the rice on top. Close the container tightly to prevent insects from entering.
Turtle bone marrow rice storage method
Poke out the bone marrow from the turtle shell using thin wires, wash it with clean warm water, and air dry it. Then wrap it in sandcloth and put it in the rice bag to prevent the rice from insects and spoilage. If the dried turtle shell or crab shell is directly placed in the rice, it can also prevent pests and ants.
Rice wine storage method
Rice wine contains volatile ethanol, which has insect-repellent and sterilizing effects, so it can prevent rice from insects.
Method: Put a clean wine bottle filled with rice wine in the rice container, with the bottle mouth higher than the rice surface, without a lid. Then close the container tightly to prevent insects.
